Reuniting with family and ensuring your loved ones receive the care they need is a priority for many. The Adult Dependant Relative Visa allows certain adult relatives to join British citizens or settled family members in the UK to provide or receive essential long-term care.
This guide explains who can apply, eligibility requirements, and step-by-step application instructions all in plain language.
Who Can Apply?
The Adult Dependant Relative Visa is for adult family members who need long-term care that can only be provided by their UK-based relative. Eligible applicants include:
- Parents
- Grandparents
- Siblings over 18
- Adult children
Applicants must show that they cannot access this level of care in their home country.
The sponsor (the relative in the UK providing care) must be:
- A British or Irish citizen, or
- Someone with settled status (Indefinite Leave to Remain or EU Settlement Scheme), or
- A refugee or someone under humanitarian protection in the UK
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Requirements:
To qualify, the applicant and sponsor must meet several conditions:
1. Demonstrate Need for Long-Term Care
- The applicant cannot manage daily tasks such as dressing, cooking, or washing.
- The need may be due to age, illness, accident, or progressive health decline.
- Evidence such as medical records or professional care assessments is essential.
2. Care Must Be Provided by the Sponsor
- No one in the applicant’s home country can provide the required care.
- This includes other family members, friends, or professional carers.
- Cultural and practical considerations are also reviewed.
3. Accommodation and Financial Support
- The sponsor must provide suitable accommodation without overcrowding.
- The sponsor must demonstrate sufficient funds to support the applicant for at least five years without relying on public funds.
4. Character and Background Checks
- Applicants must have no serious criminal record in the last seven years.
- Their presence must be considered safe and beneficial to the UK.
Cost of Adult Dependant Visa UK:
The cost of an adult dependant visa in the UK varies depending on the applicant’s nationality and duration of stay. Applicants typically pay the visa application fee, healthcare surcharge, and any associated service fees. It’s important to check the latest fees on the UK government website or consult immigration advisors to ensure accurate budgeting.
Conditions for Sponsoring an Adult Relative in UK:
To sponsor an adult relative, the sponsor must meet specific conditions for sponsoring an adult relative in the UK. They must be a British citizen or hold settled status, demonstrate sufficient income and accommodation, and prove the relative requires long-term care that can only be provided in the UK. These requirements ensure that both the sponsor and applicant meet legal and financial responsibilities.

UK Visa for Elderly Relatives:
The UK visa for elderly relatives allows parents, grandparents, or other adult dependants to join their family in the UK. Eligibility depends on the relative’s need for long-term care and the sponsor’s ability to provide adequate support. This visa is designed for elderly individuals who cannot be cared for abroad.
UK Immigration Adult Dependant Visa Forms:
Applicants must complete UK immigration adult dependant visa forms accurately, providing personal details, relationship to the sponsor, and evidence of care needs. Correctly completing these forms is crucial to avoid delays or refusals. Supporting documents typically include medical reports, proof of relationship, and sponsor’s financial evidence.
Submit Adult Dependant Visa UK Application:
Once forms and documents are ready, applicants can submit the adult dependant visa UK application online or at a visa application centre. Payment of fees and biometric submission are required. Following submission, the application is processed, and applicants may be asked for additional documentation or attend an interview.
Adult Dependant Visa UK London:
Visa applications in London are processed at designated UK visa centres. Adult dependant visa UK London applicants must schedule appointments for document submission and biometric enrolment. London-based centres often provide guidance on completing the process efficiently.
Immigration Offices Processing Adult Dependant Visa UK:
Applications are reviewed by immigration offices processing adult dependant visas in the UK, typically within a few weeks to several months depending on complexity. UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) ensures all eligibility and sponsorship requirements are met before granting the visa.
UK Adult Dependant Visa Eligibility Check:
An UK adult dependant visa eligibility check involves verifying the sponsor’s status, the applicant’s relationship, care needs, and financial requirements. Pre-checking eligibility can prevent application refusals and streamline the process.
UK Immigration Rules Adult Dependant:
The UK immigration rules for adult dependants specify that the applicant must be over 18, unable to be cared for abroad, and require long-term personal care. The sponsor must meet financial, accommodation, and legal requirements to support the applicant. Compliance with these rules is critical to a successful application.
Application Process:
1. Gather Documents
Collect all evidence demonstrating:
- Care needs and inability to access care in the home country
- Sponsor’s financial stability and accommodation
- Relationship proof (birth certificates, family records)
2. Complete the Online Application
- Fill out the Adult Dependant Relative Visa online form.
- Provide personal details, relationship to the sponsor, and reasons for application.
3. Complete Appendix 12 VAF4A
- Provides additional details about care needs and sponsor’s ability to provide support.
4. Pay the Visa Fee
- Fees vary. Always confirm the latest rates on the UK government website.
5. Submit Evidence
- Submit all documents along with the application forms.
- Evidence must clearly show care requirements and sponsor support.
6. Book and Attend a Biometric Appointment
- Submit fingerprints and photographs at a visa application center.
- Bring all required identification documents and appointment confirmation.
7. Await Decision
- Processing times vary. Track your application online and be prepared for additional requests from the Home Office.
Tips for a Strong Application:
- Be thorough: Include all medical evidence and financial documents.
- Avoid gaps: Incomplete information can lead to delays or refusals.
- Seek guidance if needed: Immigration rules are complex, and professional advice can help ensure success.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I apply if my relative is not a British citizen?
Only if they have settled status, refugee status, or humanitarian protection in the UK.
Do I automatically get permanent residency?
No. Initial visas may be limited-term. Indefinite leave may be granted after meeting specific conditions.
How long does the application take?
Processing times vary but typically take several months. Check the Home Office website for current estimates.
